Q. I have a concrete basement floor that was previously painted with latex
and it has lifted and come off in areas due to a water leak. I would like to
clean up and apply a proper concrete paint on the surface and would like to
know what is the best way to remove the old latex paint. Could I apply a primer
over the old latex before the concrete paint or would a wet bedsheet or such
help to lift the old paint? Any help wold be appreciated.

A. First, scrape off as much of the latex as possible. Then use a wire brush
to remove any other small areas of the latex that aren't adhering well to the
concrete. Whatever latex remains can be painted over. Thoroughly wash the floor
with a detergent to remove grease and oil and then allow the floor to dry thoroughly.

You MUST make sure that the concrete floor is properly dry before you repaint.
Then you can apply the primer and topcoat.